Just In: Héctor Rodríguez’s meteoric rise threatening Reds’ player spot on the roster

Cincinnati Reds fans are already familiar with Sal Stewart, one of the team’s top draft picks from three years ago who has quickly risen through the minor league ranks and may get the call to the majors this season. But there’s another rising star not far behind him.

 

 

Héctor Rodríguez is also turning heads with a standout performance in the minors. After hitting .298/.357/.481 in Double-A, the young outfielder has been even more impressive at Triple-A Louisville, slashing .372/.471/.535. His plate discipline has reached new heights, walking as often as he strikes out.

 

 

Acquired from the New York Mets at the 2022 trade deadline, Rodríguez could finally be the power-hitting outfielder Reds fans have been waiting for. But his rise may come at a cost—Will Benson’s future in Cincinnati could be in jeopardy.

 

 

Héctor Rodríguez’s meteoric rise is threatening Will Benson’s spot on the Reds roster

Will Benson’s spot on the Reds’ roster is becoming increasingly unstable. While he filled in admirably in center field during TJ Friedl’s time on the paternity list, Benson is better suited for a corner outfield position. However, the team recently moved Noelvi Marte to right field, creating more competition for playing time.

 

 

Manager Terry Francona has already leaned toward playing Jake Fraley in right field over Benson — a decision that’s easy to justify. Despite Benson hitting a two-run homer in Friday’s 3-2 win over the Braves, he struggled mightily in July, batting just .183 with a 24 wRC+ and failing to draw a walk in 61 plate appearances.

 

 

With Ke’Bryan Hayes, Zack Littell, and Miguel Andujar joining the roster, Benson could be sent down to Triple-A Louisville as early as next week. The Reds need to make several roster decisions ahead of Monday’s game in Chicago, and Benson seems like a likely candidate to be optioned.

 

 

Though it’s doubtful that Héctor Rodríguez will take Benson’s place on the big-league roster this season, Benson’s spot isn’t guaranteed. He’s still under team control through 2029 and has minor league options, making him a valuable depth piece. But if Rodríguez continues to produce and Benson stays cold at the plate, the former Guardians prospect could fall further down the Reds’ depth chart.